Your first year in real estate as a new agent

Written by Engel & Völkers on 26.9.2016

You’ve recently gained your real-estate license and are heading into your first year in business. While exciting times lie ahead, a career in the property industry can be challenging, and the early stages are a testament to this.

But never fear: the first 12 months are an ideal time to lay solid foundations to act as a springboard for the future. Here are our tips for embracing your brand-new vocation.

Learn how to work

Real-estate jobs are not always strictly nine to five, as the first year will indicate. Be prepared to put in the hours and work hard. One thing you can be sure of is that all the extra time and effort will be worth it.

Figuring out how to work efficiently tends to be more of a learning curve. Expect to make mistakes and ignore your inner perfectionist. It’s typical to have an uneven start to your career, but there’ll be an abundance of highs too.

Expanding every area of your business at once is impossible, and you’re likely to become frustrated if you attempt it. Focus on one element at a time, such as building your e-newsletter subscriber list, and set yourself realistic targets.

Know your area

You may not be an expert on every aspect of your local real-estate market yet, or you may have recently moved to a new location for that crucial career start. However, you will need to acquire in-depth knowledge of the neighbourhoods you’re specialising in.

When on viewings, sharing crucial details on public transport and nearby schools will not only help your clients picture themselves living in the property, it will help to create a rapport between you.

Build your network

Climbing the career ladder isn’t wholly dependent on who you know, but building a strong and trusted network helps. Stay clear of people who don’t abide by the same code of ethics as you, or who partake in activities you wouldn’t want you name and brand to become associated with, but make contacts and form partnerships when appropriate.

Seek out local networking events and learn how to make an excellent first impression. Your address book needs to thicken before your wallet does.

Stay positive

While your first year in the property industry may not always be free of hurdles, a positive attitude will ensure it’s less of a challenge. Shrug in the face of adversity and learn how to deal with isolation as being an estate agent is a primarily solo career. Take time off when possible and work on keeping friendships alive.

Remember, it can take several months to seal your first deal. This means you’ll require backup funds, a supportive family or partner or to squeeze your own budget. It might mean you have to skip this year’s holiday and live off your savings, but the trials and tribulations will be worth it when you make your first completion.

Engel & Völkers offers excellent career prospects for real-estate agents who become part of our global network. We provide high-quality training, the prerequisite tools needed for the trade and a fantastic team spirit. To find out about opportunities with Engel & Völkers, visit our website.